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Researching subjects

In this step, you can use the UCAS search tool to see if you can find the answers to the tasks we have set.

(We will be asking for the results you find in the following discussion, so make a note of your answers.)

Tip: remember to clear the filters in the Search tool and select ‘undergraduate’ courses before you start a new search.

Scenario B: Use your brain

Student B is studying a mix of A levels and a BTEC at a sixth form college in the South of England. She expressed an interest in studying medicine or psychology during her GCSEs, but after attending a talk about degree options in biological sciences, she is now seriously thinking about applying for neuroscience. She’d like to study at a university in the North West of England.

Her fascination in learning more about how the brain functions and the workings of the nervous system has been sparked by observing the rehabilitation of a next door neighbour with serious spinal injuries following a motorbike accident.

Task: Use the UCAS website to identify two things:

1. How many providers in the North West area of England run honours degree courses with neuroscience in the title?

2. Are any neuroscience and psychology combined degrees offered?

Scenario C: Take it to the next level

Student C is studying for his Highers in Scotland and has developed an interest in getting into computer games design. A keen player of video games, he has gained some practical experience by helping as a volunteer in the creation of a health promotion computer game. This enabled him to understand more about coding and has shown him that computer games can have value for educational and information purposes.

He is interested to see what degree options in computer games are available in Scotland.

Task: Use the UCAS website to identify:

1. How many computer games degree courses are available at universities and college in Scotland?

Scenario D. Under the spotlight

Student D has a strong interest in drama and is studying the International Baccalaureate (IB) at a school in Europe. Although initially interested in acting, he is now a valued member of the school’s backstage crew with a growing interest in lighting design.

Student D thinks it probably won’t be possible to study in the UK on a specialised lighting design degree.

Task: Use the UCAS website to identify:

1. Is it possible to take a degree in lighting design?

Now go to the UCAS website to find out the answers to these tasks.

You can click here to link to the UCAS search tool. Tip:Open the search tool in a new browser window. If you already have Search open, make sure you clear the filters and select’ undergraduate courses’ before you start a new search.